Silence. Well, not really. The dog’s ears are pricked, alert for the scrabble of rodents in the roof. A lonely possum calls. The fire cracks and I catch my breath. The echo of hot words stirs again like the spoon in my fingers. The baby sleeps for now. I lean in, reach out, sensing only […]
Loaded Silence – 60 word story Read More »
When it comes to research, a picture is worth a thousand words. I search Pinterest for inspiration and ideas on how everyday life would look for my characters. This week, I have been researching 18th century chatelaines and etuis. Read on to find out why French mistresses of the household would have made a clinking
Lost Treasures: Chatelaines & Etuis Read More »
What is it about the shortest day that makes you ponder where you’re at? I’ve been reflecting on how life has changed this year (to distract from my freezing toes) and I think my writing has been a big learning curve not just for me, but for my kids. Reading My son eats books. By
What Writing Taught My Family Read More »
I think I discovered this gem at the exact right time. It comes at a point when I am roughly 75% through my first draft and I alternately swing from writing doggedly on to throwing up my hands in despair at the large pile of dog faeces words I have created. Note: This post contains
Review: Bird by Bird Read More »
As a writer you try to listen to what others aren’t saying… and write about that silence. This is a quote from NR Hart. This says a lot about writing great characters, getting into their heads to find what they secretly most want and what they’re most ashamed of. I really enjoy the psychogical side
Writers from everywhere should be paid for their work. That is why I’ve put together some lists of paying markets and writing competitions with cash prizes.
International Writing Competitions 2019 Read More »
I’ve been challenged to the Three Days Three Quotes game. Thank you so much to Finding French Charming. Her blog is so entertaining. You should go check out her stories about finding love. The Rulebook: Thank the person who nominated you. Post a quote for three consecutive days (1 quote for each day). Nominate three
I’ve been challenged! Read More »
Writing in New Zealand is a tough business. I’ve recently started reading a lot more New Zealand fiction and as a country, we are producing some great work. I’ve discovered some talented Kiwi authors in the Twitter writing community. These hard-working creatives should get more exposure. The idea for this segment grew from a desire
NZ Writer Spotlight – J C Hart Read More »
Have you heard that Pinterest is a powerful search engine? I’ve seen that first hand. Not only can anyone search for and save pictures of anything through Pinterest. But the images from Pinterest also show up in Google image search. Starting out on Pinterest for writers and bloggers can be daunting – there are guides
Starting out on Pinterest for Writers and Bloggers Read More »
Every writer has to make the choice at some point – to use their real name or write under a pseudonym. But what message does the author’s name send to readers? Have a look at the book you are reading. Not what you are reading, but who is the person behind the words? Is the
Should I use a pen name? Read More »